Canon 5D Mark III overview

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Canon 5D Mk. III Demo

B&H Event Space

Features of DSLR

The Canon EOS 5D Mark III DSLR Camera is a full-frame 22.3MP DSLR featuring exceptional still image and movie recording capabilities. Integrating Canon's new DIGIC 5+ Image Processor and 14-bit A/D conversion, this camera is able to produce superbly detailed imagery with immense low-light sensitivity that is further aided by an extended ISO range up to 102400. Image quality is further enhanced by the new 61-point high density reticular autofocus, including up to 41 cross-type AF points and 5 dual diagonal AF points for ensured sharpness. iFCL metering works in conjunction with the AF system and uses color information from scenes to produce accurate exposure readings using a 63 zone dual-layer metering sensor. HDR and Multiple Exposure modes provide greater creative opportunities and help you to reduce the amount of post-production time needed to produce high quality imagery. The 5D Mark III is also capable of recording Full HD video with manual exposure control and in multiple frame rates, including 1080/30p and 720/60p. Still images can also be recorded up to 6fps.

Image review is possible using the 1,040,000-dot 3.2" Clear View II LCD monitor, which features a high-transparency, reflection resistant multi-coating for adequate viewing under bright conditions. The Intelligent Viewfinder also integrates a superimposed LCD providing you with exposure information and features a 100% field of view.

A highly durable magnesium-alloy body surrounds the components and offers increased dust and weather resistance. An updated EOS Integrated Cleaning system also helps to reduce and remove dust within the camera body. Several of the physical controls on the camera body are fully customizable for a more efficient workflow and more convenient handling scheme. Dual CF and SD memory card support also increases the compatibility of the camera. Support is also provided for the optional Canon Wireless File Transmitter and GPS receiver for remote logging, tracking, and sending of your imagery.

22.3 Megapixel Full-Frame CMOS Sensor

A newly designed 22.3MP full-frame CMOS sensor is incorporated into the 5D Mark III providing you with highly detailed, rich images with a maximum resolution of 5760 x 3840 pixels. The sensor is also features a high S/N ratio and larger individual pixels for increased visual depth and cleaner looking images. A new photodiode structure and increased photoelectric conversion rate also helps to improve the overall sensitivity of the sensor, resulting in a reduction in image noise and improved high ISO performance.

DIGIC 5+ Image Processor

Processing speed and power are increased to promote significantly greater overall performance and response from all aspects of the camera. New algorithms are incorporated in order to promote better noise reduction for higher ISOs and chromatic aberration compensation. The increase in processing speed also helps to improve the continuous shooting rate, bringing it to 6 full-resolution frames-per-second.

14-bit A/D Conversion

The 14-bit signal processing helps to improve the quality and gradation of images by producing more natural, smooth-looking results. An increased ISO range is also provided, from 100 to 25600 in standard modes and 50 to 102400 in expanded modes. The ISO range can be controlled and customized depending on the user's preferences, and additionally an auto ISO mode can be employed. This extended sensitivity range helps to counter frequently changing and difficult lighting situations and significantly minimizes noise when photographing with even the top-rated sensitivity.

The dedicated AF menu tab permits quick and easy access, eliminating the need to navigate through settings menus in order to modify your AF settings. Autofocus point selection is broken up into 6 different methods-Spot, Single Point, Single + 4 Adjacent Points, Single + 8 Adjacent Points, Zone Selection, and Automatic AF Point Selection-as well as a dedicated AF configuration tool for control of AI Servo AF III tracking parameters.

iFCL 63-Zone Dual Layer Metering Sensor

An intelligent metering system works in conjunction with the autofocus system and independently analyzes 'Focus, Color, and Luminance' within the scene for the most precise exposure settings possible. The 63 zones cover the entire image area with great detail and the dual-layer design permits a wider sensitivity to different wavelengths of light.

The dual layers are split into a red/green channel and a blue/green channel; which counters the red light sensitivity bias electronic sensors inherently have. A series of algorithms are employed to combine data received from both layers, with the resulting exposure reading being extremely accurate regardless of the shooting conditions.

EOS HD Video

Full HD video recording is supported in multiple formats, including 1080/30p, 24p, 25p; 720/60p, 50p; 480/30p, 25p. While recording video, a 4GB automatic file partition is employed in order to gain longer continuous recording times, up to 29 minutes 59 seconds. Both All i-frame and IPB compressions are supported as well as the standard H.264/MPEG -4 AVC codec. Embedding the time code is also possible for greater convenience when recording with multiple cameras.

Video performance is further enhanced with the ability to manually adjust your exposure settings and audio levels while recording. By employing Live View, you can view your recording on the LCD and make settings changes with a dedicated menu tab on the fly. The DIGIC 5+ processor also dramatically improves video response times and helps to reduce color artifacts, aberrations, and moiré.

Rugged and Efficient Design

Constructed from magnesium-alloy, the 5D Mark III features a toughened housing that provides enhanced dust and weather resistance. Its ergonomic design also produces an intuitively navigable interface with an emphasis on lessening hand strain and increasing functionality. Handling is simplified and natural with this body due to the incorporation of customizable controls: You can make shooting settings with just your right hand, and fast image check and image processing operations with just your left. The redesigned grip offers easy holding when shooting or carrying the camera, while the rubber skin coating has been engineered for all day comfort in your hand and also coats the camera's card slot cover. Additionally, there's an internal headphone terminal and dual card slots supporting both CF and SD / SDHC / SDXC memory cards. Three recording modes are ideal for a variety of workflows: Auto switch media instructs the camera to swap cards as soon as one card is filled, a great feature for long shoots. The camera can also record separately to each card. For extra security, you can set the Mark III to generate an automatic backup by recording the same file to both cards at the same time.

The 5D Mark III also boasts a dual-axis electronic level indicator displaying vertical and horizontal tilt on the LCD monitor--either alone or during Live View shooting. The indicator may also be displayed in the intelligent viewfinder, if you prefer.

A newly designed shutter is equally as durable and has been tested up to 150,000 cycles. The lightweight, carbon fiber blades also provide support for the increased 6fps burst rate.

The body construction also features extensive gasketing for maximum dust and weather protection, even at connection points around the lens, hot shoe, and memory card slots. Further dust protection and removal is aided by an updated EOS Integrated Cleaning system that uses a vibration-based dust removal process.

Intelligent Viewfinder

The optical viewfinder provides a 100% field of view with 0.71x magnification and a wide viewing angle of 34.1%deg;. A refined design integrates aspherical lens elements into the construction and lessens distortions and color aberrations while providing greater clarity for composing imagery. In addition to a clear view, a superimposed, transparent LCD is also incorporated. This Intelligent Viewfinder mode can be toggled on or off quickly at the touch of a button, allowing you to remove all camera information for unobstructed viewing. The information provided when it is on includes a customizable display of focus points and grid lines, which can also be directed to appear outside of the image area.

Canon's Dual Axis Electronic Level can also be used in conjunction with the Intelligent Viewfinder and visually displays pitch and roll angles, aiding in properly level horizons. When used in the viewfinder, this feature can display +/- 6° of roll and +/- 4° of pitch in 1° increments when held horizontally (the inverse is shown when held vertically). The electronic level is particularly useful for landscape photographers and those working with tilt and shift lenses whose angle of view is especially critical.

3.2" Clear View II LCD Monitor

The expanded 3.2" Clear View II LCD provides high quality viewing with a 1,040,000-dot resolution and anti-reflection coating. This allows for sharp and clear viewing in even the brightest of conditions and displays images and videos with great detail and richness. The display also features a viewing angle up to 170° for review from the side or below.

The Dual Axis Electronic Level is also functional in on the LCD and can display a full 360° of roll and +/- 10° of pitch in 1° increments. When used in conjunction with Live View mode, a smaller display is placed over the image. Live View mode permits real-time image review and can also place grid lines over the image for compositional help. You can also zoom into and navigate within the image when in Live View and use the grid lines for minute control and precision over the alignment of your photograph.

Multiple Exposure and High Dynamic Range

Multiple exposures are possible in-camera and can be recorded onto a single file using 4 distinct settings for control. When in Additive mode, this closely resembles making multiple exposures on film and layers each exposure; manual exposure compensation is required. Average mode layers the images and automatically compensates for the final exposure, eliminating the unintended possibility of gross under or overexposure. Bright mode is specifically designed for photographing in uniformly dark scenes with a bright subject, such as a studio environment. Dark mode functions inversely, and helps to eliminate overly bright sections of the image including reflections and highlights.

A High Dynamic Range (HDR) mode is also incorporated and allows for the creation of HDR images in-camera, reducing the time needed to manually overlay images in post-production. When using this mode, a series of 3 bracketed exposures are made of the same image, then automatically integrated into the same frame, resulting in a photograph without blown highlights or blocked up shadows and a long middle range of tones. This mode is especially useful when photographing scenes with a great deal of contrast.

Wireless and GPS Compatible

The 5D Mark III is compatible with the WFT-E7A Wireless File Transmitter as well as the GP-E2 GPS Receiver (both not included). The WFT-E7A, which supports 802.11 a/b/g/n and sports a built-in Gigabit Ethernet connection, provides LAN and Bluetooth image transfers and features an FTP mode with automatic image resend function to ensure file delivery even if the signal momentarily drops. The transmitter also has EOS utility mode and WFT server mode, and is capable of performing time sync multiple cameras on the same network. The GP-E2, which connects via USB or Hot Shoe, automatically embeds location data into the images' metadata, including latitude, longitude, elevation, and the camera's orientation in relation to a compass reading when shooting. It also has a GPS time sync function, particularly useful when a project is shot among different time zones. Both of these accessories do not compromise the 5D Mark III's dust and weather resistance and are designed to the same rugged specifications.
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Please Note:

Requires a firmware upgrade to be compatible with the GPS GP-E2, which will be available soon.

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Silent Shutter Mode

In both single shot drive and continuous shot drive, a Silent Shutter mode can be employed to significantly reduce the sound the camera makes when shooting.

Electronic Level

By pressing the INFO button an electronic level can be engaged and will appear on the LCD monitor to indicate the horizontal and vertical tilt of your camera. This is a very helpful feature for all photographic applications, but particularly landscape and architecture photography.

Optional Battery Grip

The optional dedicated Battery Grip BG-E11 (not included) features buttons and a multi-controller. It delivers seamless performance regardless of whether the camera is in vertical or horizontal orientation. The grip takes 2 LP-E6 batteries or an included AA battery magazine, and is useful in counter-balancing large lenses during handheld shooting.

Canon 5D Mark III reviews

Rated 5 out of
5 by
pablitomanifito from
3rd Time is the CharmI own (2) Canon 5Ds, owned and sold the Canon 5D MkII (never really liked the camera), and now own the 5D MkIII. I immediately connected with it over the following features: wide ISO range, quick, fast, accurate focusing, and the silent shutter mode - those 3 features make this camera a great purchase for those shooting weddings and events. Turned off ALL the lights in a room and lit just a Bic lighter - I was able to shoot at ISO 25,600 at 1/80th @ f1.6. The file looks great (comparable to the 5D MkII at ISO 6400 or so). If I had the funds, I would be purchasing a 2nd MkIII - very happy with the menu system, overall performance, and ease of use.

Date published: 2012-03-26

Rated 5 out of
5 by
RS Photo from
Great Camera even if not the latest and greatest technologyThe Mark iii lives up to the 5D nameplate once again. As a professional photographer I need to get the most life out of my equipment and not jump on the latest technology bandwagon. After 11 years of studio, wedding and events I finally began to have issues with my 5D mark i. The Mark iii was a seamless transition and a major improvement form the i & ii. The Canon line has served me well for many years and I highly recommend this body! I did look at the Mark IV body and couldn't bring myself to spend the extra $1000 to have better video focusing. If you shoot portrait and wedding the 5D line is a work horse and worth the money.

Date published: 2016-12-06

Rated 5 out of
5 by
Nijoto from
Been waiting for this.I am a freelance photographer and cinematographer. I don't have an enormous budget to spend on gear. I had thought long and hard on how to improve my system with limited funds. Eventually, I came to the conclusion that the Mark III was the best fit. It serves as a double duty camera, being that it is my main camera for weddings and other events, and it serves as my cinema camera for actor reels, narratives, docs, etc. It is a very capable camera, especially if one knows what he or she is doing with it. When I can afford to separate my systems, I will. In the mean time, this is perfect for my line of work, and the budget I have to work with.

Date published: 2016-04-21

Rated 5 out of
5 by
JRunner from
Phenomenal Camera!! AF and ISO Amazing!I am blown away with this camera. AF is simply amazing... better than previous 1D series models. High ISO is simply astonishing. Menu and button layout will take some getting used to, but that goes with the territory. It is no longer a prosumer camera IMO. Some have complained about the price ... I am sure it will come down at some point, but the thing to keep in mind is that this camera has a much broader range of uses than the previous two versions - from landscape, to studio, to sports and action, this camera can do it all, whereas the previous versions were more suitable for studio and/or landscape due to the slower FPS and less capable AF. Highly recommended!

Date published: 2012-03-22

Rated 5 out of
5 by
Dweeb from
A true workhorse!The Canon 5D Mark III is a excellent camera. Have owned it since November 2012 and enjoyed the camera immensely. The AF system and speed of focus is truly remarkable and 6 FPS makes it possible to capture the images when needed. Amazing pictures in low light! Have been impressed in all situations (portrait, landscape, formal events and sports). Though pricey, you get what you pay for and so much much. Was initially going to purchase the 7D but very glad that I went with the 5D instead. The EF lenses (L series) have made this camera a photographer's dream and one to rival any other full frame camera in its class. This camera is a workhorse and is built for the professional and the amateur enthusiast alike.

Date published: 2013-06-06

Rated 5 out of
5 by
marksgotshots from
T2i Upgrade - Wow!I purchased a T2i about 5 years ago as my first DSLR. I really enjoyed the heck out of it and it opened up a new hobby/passion that should last a lifetime. Fast-forward 5 years later; I'm ready to step-up my game. I now know enough to know why I am missing shots and what I really need to take this to the next level. I read all the reviews, changed my mind at least 3-4 times and then pulled the trigger on the 5DMII and the 24-70M/L Lens. I just got back from a week in Alaska and I can honestly say I am so happy to have made this upgrade. The picture quality, focusing, and rapid fire helped me pull out some very difficult nature shots that otherwise wouldn't have been possible.

Date published: 2015-06-19

Rated 5 out of
5 by
Mimi from
Love this Camera!I purchased the Canon 7D Mark II last year and used it for sports and wildlife photography. I was so impressed with it, I decided to get the Canon 5D Mark III this year for portraits and landscapes. The pictures I have taken with the 5D are stunning right out of camera. I am not a professional photographer (just a photo enthusiast) but when comparing the two cameras, the 5D produces brighter colors and the clarity is amazing! Both cameras serve a purpose and I am extremely happy with both but in my opinion the 5D, with the advantage of a full frame, has a slight edge on the 7D.

Date published: 2016-04-19

Rated 5 out of
5 by
Wedding Photographer from
Excellent ResultsI bought this camera to use along with the 5D Mark II that I already had to shoot weddings. I tried it out for the first time last weekend and am very pleased with the results. Throughout the day and night I used both cameras with a variety of lenses. I just finished going through all of the images in Lightroom and without a doubt the Mark III images are superior. In almost every case I can pick out which camera shot which image because the Mark III images are that much nicer. The Mark IIs are still great, but the Mark IIIs seem sharper, richer in color, and just overall nicer quality images. They are just gorgeous.